In a bold step toward enriching early surgical education, the Department of Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery at The Ohio State University recently piloted a month-long elective dissection course designed specifically for fourth-year medical students. Held in the Anatomy Laboratory Toward Visuospatial Surgical Innovations in Otolaryngology and Neurosurgery (ALT-VISION) Lab, this immersive experience offered a rare opportunity for students to explore the intricacies of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery (OHNS) through hands-on surgical anatomy and operative technique training—well before the start of residency. It was first proposed by Moataz Abouammo MD, MSc, and Akhil Katragadda BS, and supervised by Dr Ricardo L. Carrau MD, MBA.
The course, led by Moataz Abouammo, MD, MSc, was developed with a dual mission: to enhance foundational surgical skills and to support career exploration in a specialty that often receives limited exposure during medical school. “We wanted to create a space where students could not only refine their technical abilities but also envision themselves in the field of Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery,” said Dr. Abouammo.
What set this course apart was its innovative simulation of common surgeries and the use of photogrammetry for 3D modeling of surgical dissections, all evaluated using standardized tools to track the student progress. Each student was tasked with creating one or two anatomical models based on surgical procedures by the end of the course, which were then assessed by OHNS faculty. In parallel, students’ dissection skills were recorded and evaluated at two- and four-week intervals using validated tools such as the Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skills (OSATS). The results were striking: across the board, students demonstrated measurable improvements in technique, precision and confidence.
Student feedback echoed these findings. Many cited the course as a transformative experience—one that not only sharpened their surgical acumen but also solidified their interest in OHNS. “It was the first time I felt like I was truly operating,” one student shared in a post-course survey. “The feedback and mentorship we received were invaluable.”
The course’s success has already garnered national attention. An abstract detailing the experience was recently accepted for presentation at the AAO-HNSF 2025 Annual Meeting & OTO EXPO, underscoring the program’s potential as a model for other institutions.
Beyond its educational impact, the course also highlighted the ALT-VISION Lab’s growing role as a hub for surgical innovation and training. Building on previous work in 3D photogrammetry modeling and neuronavigation techniques, this initiative reflects the lab’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of how surgical education is delivered.
Looking ahead, the team hopes to expand the course’s reach—potentially offering future iterations to residents and visiting students through away rotations. “This isn’t just about one course,” say Dr. Carrau and Dr. Abouammo. “It’s about reimagining how we prepare the next generation of otolaryngologists.”
As the department continues to explore new ways to integrate technology, mentorship, and hands-on learning, this elective dissection course stands as a compelling example of what’s possible when innovation meets education.